FG Unveils Phase 1 Report On Correctional System Reforms

The public presentation of the Phase 1 report of the Independent Investigative Panel on alleged corruption, abuse of power, torture, cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) held on Monday 21st October, 2024 at Honourable Minister’s Conference Hall, Abuja.

In his remarks at the unveiling of the phase one report, the Honourable Minister, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo commended the panel for its thorough and diligent work, which began three weeks ago with a commitment to transparency and institutional reform.

He reiterated the Ministry’s stance on zero tolerance for corruption, abuse of power, and any form of human rights violations, stressing that the investigation is part of a broader effort to build a transformative correctional service.

“The Nigerian Correctional Service is a key institution within our justice system and national security architecture, and we will not condone any form of cruelty, inhumane treatment, or malfeasance.” the Minister stated.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo assured that officers found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary actions and that this initiative marked the beginning of a comprehensive reform to create a rehabilitative and corrective correctional service.

“We have a duty to ensure that our correctional institutions are places of rehabilitation and not of suffering. This report is a first step in a long journey to restore integrity and human rights in our correctional system. We will not tolerate any form of misconduct or abuse within our custodial facilities,” he reiterated.

The report findings, presented by the Secretary of the Investigative Panel, Dr. Uju Agomoh, highlighted several critical issues uncovered during the phase 1 of the investigation.

The Committee investigated allegations regarding the treatment and privileges granted to Idris Okuneye (popularly known as Bobrisky) during his recent incarceration. The panel did not find any evidence that suggested that he slept outside the Custodial Centre during the period of his imprisonment. The panel also noted that there were irregularities in his transfers between custodial centres, including backdated documentation.

Additionally, Okuneye enjoyed privileges such as a furnished single cell, frequent visits, and access to amenities, raising concerns about possible preferential treatment and corruption.

On the allegation of financial misconduct involving the family of a former Chairperson of the defunct Pension Reform Task Team, Abdulrasheed Maina, the Committee confirmed that funds were transferred to the personal account of the officer in charge at Kuje Custodial Center, Deputy Controller of Corrections Kelvin Ikechukwu, by Maina’s son, allegedly for the welfare of the inmate. This action was deemed unethical and a violation of the regulations governing correctional officers.

The report also highlighted systemic issues, including widespread allegations of corruption, indiscipline, human rights violations, and poor welfare conditions for both inmates and correctional staff. The panel noted that these issues were exacerbated by the underfunding of the Nigerian Correctional Service and the poor working conditions of its officers.

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The Committee further recommended urgent reforms, including clear operational guidelines, improved training for custodial officers, and measures to eliminate discriminatory practices based on inmates’ socio-economic status.

It announced that the next phase of its work would involve broader investigations, public hearings, and the solicitation of memoranda from stakeholders to ensure transparency and public involvement in the reform process.

The Phase 2 report will be presented within the next year, with a focus on addressing systemic challenges and implementing sustainable reforms.